Attending court can be an unfamiliar and stressful experience, whether you are appearing as a defendant or attending to support a family member or friend. Understanding what to expect can make the process feel more manageable. At Chess Law Solicitors, we believe that clients should enter court knowing what is happening, what is expected of them and how their legal team will support them throughout the proceedings.
Before You Attend Court
Your solicitor will advise you of the date, time and location of your hearing and explain the purpose of the hearing. Make sure you know where the court is and allow sufficient time for your journey. HM Courts & Tribunals Service recommends arriving around 30 minutes before the time stated on your hearing notice. You will normally have to pass through security before entering the building, and delays can occur. Bring any documents your solicitor has asked you to have with you and ensure your phone is switched off or placed on silent before entering the courtroom. There is no formal dress code, but you should dress appropriately and respectfully for a formal court environment.
What Happens When You Arrive?
Once you have passed through court security, you should locate your solicitor or barrister or follow the instructions you have been given by your legal team. Do not be concerned if your case is not called immediately. Courts deal with numerous cases each day, and it is common for defendants and their families to spend some time waiting. Before the hearing, your solicitor or barrister may speak with you privately to explain what is going to happen, discuss any developments and answer questions you may have.
Inside the Courtroom
The layout and procedure will depend upon whether your case is being heard in the Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court and upon the type of hearing taking place. If you are the defendant, your legal representative will guide you through the process and explain when you are required to speak. Listen carefully, remain calm and avoid interrupting the judge, magistrates, advocates or witnesses. Court proceedings are formal. Phones should remain silent and everyone attending should behave respectfully throughout the hearing. If there is anything you do not understand, speak to your legal representative when appropriate rather than worrying in silence.
Can Family and Friends Attend?
In many criminal proceedings, family members and friends can attend and sit in the public gallery. Criminal court hearings are generally held in public as part of the principle of open justice, although there are circumstances in which access may be restricted or the court may sit in private. Ultimately, the judge controls how a hearing is conducted and who may observe it. Family members attending court should remember that they are observers. They must not interrupt proceedings, communicate with the defendant during the hearing or react visibly or verbally to evidence or decisions. There may also be restrictions where a family member is due to give evidence as a witness. Witnesses should follow the instructions given by the court or legal representatives about where they should wait and when they may enter the courtroom.
Supporting Someone Through Court Proceedings
The support of family and friends can be extremely important during criminal proceedings. Court cases can involve long periods of uncertainty and waiting. Practical support; such as helping with travel arrangements, attending hearings were permitted and simply being available to listen, can make the process easier. However, it is important not to discuss evidence with witnesses or post information about an ongoing case on social media. Court proceedings can be subject to reporting restrictions and other legal rules, and careless online comments may have serious consequences. HMCTS guidance specifically warns that members of the public may be unfamiliar with the rules surrounding court reporting and contempt of court. If you are unsure whether something can be discussed or shared, seek legal advice first.
What Happens After the Hearing?
What happens next will depend upon the type and outcome of the hearing. The case may be adjourned to another date, sent to another court, proceed towards trial, conclude with sentence or require further preparation. Your solicitor will explain the outcome, any conditions you must follow and the next steps in your case. Keep a note of any future court dates and stay in contact with your legal team. If your contact details or circumstances change, tell your solicitor as soon as possible.
How Chess Law Solicitors Can Help
Facing criminal proceedings can be daunting, but you do not have to navigate the process without professional support. At Chess Law Solicitors, we guide our clients through every stage of the criminal justice process, from the police station through to court proceedings. We ensure that our clients understand the case against them, their options and what to expect at each stage.
If you or a family member is due to attend court and require criminal defence advice or representation, contact Chess Law Solicitors to discuss how we can assist.
